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Valheim Sailing Mechanics
(lemmy.ml)
This is my sailing experience every time I play Valheim. I'm starting to believe the devs put in an RNG variable that makes the wind constantly fight you for certain steam IDs or something.
You put me into a rabbit hole to wich I can't find the answer... that being what are the physics behind tacking
I am not entirely sure about the English names for the parts of a boat but I try my best: the Boat always tries moves towards where the bow is pointed because of the keel below the ship which acts like a guide rail because it creates a path of less resistance. And the hull makes it very hard to much it left and right. So even though the wind comes from a 45° the shape translates that in mostly forward movement and a little bit of sideways movement. Like a toy car you are stepping on: you are acting as a downwards force but the wheels translate it to forward movement. I hope that somewhat gives you a bit more insight!
Good explanation. Another way to think about it is with modern sails and hull design it's more like a wing. The sail above the water is the more obvious wing shape, and with some designs that use a centerboard or daggerboard that is like the other half of a wing turned on its side. With water having more drag than air, the centerboard is the continued wing shape under the water only shorter.
That actually made me understand it fully. thanks!